Arizona State University will soon launch a new biomanufacturing platform to grow human neurons in vitro to develop and test new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. The effort includes the development of several types of neurons on a large scale to test…

An international team has learned how the body activates a protein responsible for limiting muscle growth, a finding that could lead to therapies to improve ALS patients’ muscle function. The protein, called GDF8 or myostatin, determines both the number of muscle fibers the body produces and the fibers’ size. Researchers’…

When discussing potential Radicava (edaravone) treatment with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients, physicians need to take great care in presenting facts in an ethical and scientifically sound manner, warn two researchers who believe that mainstream reports of the treatment may be misleading. The duo — Crystal Yeo, MD, PhD,…

Managing a chronic illness can be difficult. There are many different medications to take (often at different times), appointments to remember, symptoms to keep track of, and lots of information to absorb. Thankfully, living in a digital age means that there are numerous mobile apps that can help you manage your chronic…

Among the many challenges I experienced during my early months with ALS was its effect on my perception of time. Before ALS, I pretty much meandered through life in full confidence that many more years lie ahead of me. But with the onset of ALS, all that changed.

A dissolving tablet version of riluzole called BHV-0223 has shown positive bioequivalence when compared to the oral form of the therapy, Rilutek, developer Biohaven Pharmaceuticals announced. The dissolving tablet, placed under the tongue, is easier to administrate to patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) who have trouble swallowing. BHV-0223 also was found…

While few of us choose to become caregivers, many of us are faced with the task if a loved one is diagnosed with a chronic disease. The transition is a strange time for everyone involved, as the nature of the relationship changes for both the caregiver and patient. However, it is…

I’m one of those folks who follow daily life routines. Simply put, it’s a series of predictable habits that bring structure to my life and help me maintain a positive attitude while living with ALS. But try as I might, my daily routines did not survive the past…

First in a series of two columns on creating a plan to treat depression.  In my last column on preventing and identifying depression, I promised to create a guide to help you come up with a perfectly individualized plan to treat your depression. Just as no…

Rural residents with high school diplomas are at lower risk of developing dementia and cognitive impairment than those with less education, a study indicates. The study has healthcare policy implications, including providing more care to those in rural areas with dementia and cognition-related disorders such as Alzheimer’s and ALS. Researchers…